Staying safe on those dark winter nights

CAN you see where you’re going?

In the dark, it’s not just drivers and riders who need to be a bit more careful, vulnerable road users such as pedestrians need to be aware of the dangers, too.

IAM RoadSmart’s head of driving and riding standards, Richard Gladman, has put together some tips to keep road users safe.

If you’re a pedestrian walking in the dark, take notice of the state of the pavement and if possible, walk in a well-lit area.

Carrying a wind-up torch will help you and a driver on the road – and it’s a lot safer than using the torch on your phone.

●●Some rural roads do not have pavements and although we would never suggest walking on the road in the dark, you may have set off as a pedestrian when it’s light and the sun may be setting as you’re walking.

As a pedestrian, plan to get to your destination before it gets dark.

And as a driver, remember that not all rural roads have a pavement.

●●Drive every road as if you’ve never done it before as the road situation could be different each time.

When travelling, don’t take away your local knowledge of the roads, but be prepared as the information and circumstances can change from day to day.

●●Reduce your speed, understand the limit of your vision and plan ahead.

The limit of your vision at night is often limit of your headlight beam, which is where you must be able to stop.

●●If you’re travelling through a rural area at night, it’s possible for a herd of deer to cross the road – those warnings of ‘wild animals’ signs will suddenly make sense.

Take a look at our tips to help prevent any deer-related collisions

●●Wear the right driving gear.

This may sound obvious but you’ll be surprised at the amount of people who don’t.

The right footwear is crucial, and make sure your clothes are comfortable to drive in

Richard said: “It will soon be that time of the year where our daily commute is all done in the dark – remember your headlights will be your lifeline so keep them clean and make sure they are working properly.

It is amazing how different a road looks at night and the school – the focus of your attention in daylight – blends into the background in the dark.